Dorothy McGuire was an American actress who is best known for her roles in “Claudia,” “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,” and “Gentleman’s Agreement.” With a career spanning over five decades, she made a significant impact in Hollywood, especially during the Golden Age of film.
Personal and Family Life
Born on June 14, 1916, in Omaha, Nebraska, Dorothy was encouraged by her parents to pursue acting. She graduated from several institutions, including Omaha Junior College and Pine Manor Junior College in Wellesley. Dorothy was married to photographer John Swope from 1943 until his death in 1979, and they had two children: Mark and Topo Swope.
Career Highlights
Dorothy began her acting career on stage, making her debut in “A Kiss for Cinderella.” She gained fame on Broadway with her performance in “Claudia,” which led to a film contract with 20th Century Fox. Throughout her career, she became known for her powerful performances in films like “A Tree Grows in Brooklyn,” “The Enchanted Cottage,” and “The Spiral Staircase,” often portraying strong, complex female characters.
Death and Legacy
Dorothy’s health declined after she suffered a leg injury in 2001, and she passed away due to heart failure on September 13, 2001, in Santa Monica, California. Her contributions to film have left a lasting legacy, making her a beloved figure in classic American cinema.
Filmography
| Title | Release Date | Character |
|---|---|---|
| The Greatest Story Ever Told | 1965-04-09 | The Virgin Mary |
| A Tree Grows in Brooklyn | 1945-02-28 | Katie Nolan |
| Old Yeller | 1957-12-25 | Katie Coates |
| Gentleman’s Agreement | 1947-11-11 | Kathy Lacy |
| The Spiral Staircase | 1946-02-06 | Helen |
| Three Coins in the Fountain | 1954-05-01 | Miss Frances |
| Friendly Persuasion | 1956-11-25 | Eliza Birdwell |
| The Enchanted Cottage | 1945-04-28 | Laura Pennington |
| A Summer Place | 1959-11-18 | Sylvia Hunter |
| Flight of the Doves | 1971-04-02 | Granny O’Flaherty |
| Claudia | 1943-11-04 | Claudia |
| Summer Magic | 1963-07-07 | Mrs. Margaret Carey |
| Rich Man, Poor Man | 1976-02-01 | Mary Jordache |